One of K-entertainment’s most admired celebrity couples has quietly gone their separate ways. South Korean stars IU and Lee Jong Suk have officially ended their relationship after four years together, bringing an end to a romance that began with years of friendship before turning into one of the industry’s most loved love stories. The news was confirmed on July 10 by both of their agencies, putting weeks of speculation to rest. While the breakup has disappointed many fans, reports suggest the decision was mutual and made on good terms.
The pair first captured public attention as a couple in late 2022, but their connection stretched back much further. Over the years, fans admired how their friendship gradually developed into a relationship, making the news of their split even more emotional for those who had followed their journey from the beginning.
Agencies confirm IU and Lee Jong Suk’s breakup
According to Korean media reports, IU’s agency, EDAM Entertainment, and Lee Jong Suk’s agency, Ace Factory, released identical statements confirming that the actors are no longer together. The agencies said, “It is true that they have broken up. They have decided to remain good colleagues.” The brief statement made it clear that there was no public dispute surrounding the separation and that both stars intend to continue supporting each other professionally.
Industry reports indicate that demanding work commitments became one of the biggest challenges in maintaining the relationship. As both actors continued taking on large-scale projects, spending quality time together reportedly became increasingly difficult. A representative explained, “Due to busy schedules, the time they could meet grew less and less, so they decided to end the relationship.” Neither agency shared any further details beyond those official remarks.
A friendship that slowly became a romance
IU and Lee Jong Suk first crossed paths in 2012 while serving as MCs for SBS’ Inkigayo. Their playful chemistry made them fan favourites, although the two remained close friends long after their hosting duties ended. During a 2013 appearance on Hwasin, Lee Jong Suk admitted they did not always agree while working together, but he revealed that honest conversations eventually strengthened their friendship. He said, “We talked about everything we have been holding back. Now, she’s one of my few close friends.”
The relationship became public in December 2022 after Lee Jong Suk delivered an emotional acceptance speech at the MBC Drama Awards while receiving the Daesang for Big Mouth. Without mentioning IU’s name, he said, “Thank you for always being there as the wonderful person you are. I want to tell you that I’ve liked you deeply for a very long time.” His heartfelt words immediately sparked speculation across Korean entertainment circles, and within a day both agencies officially confirmed they were dating.
At the time, Lee Jong Suk’s agency announced, “Actor Lee Jong Suk and IU recently progressed from being close acquaintances into being a couple, and they are maintaining a serious relationship. Please show lots of support so they can continue their beautiful relationship.” IU’s agency also confirmed the romance, saying, “IU and Lee Jong Suk recently progressed from being close acquaintances into a good relationship. We ask for the warm reception of fans.” Following the announcement, both stars openly spoke about how their years of friendship created a strong foundation for their relationship, with IU describing Lee Jong Suk as someone who consistently encouraged her through different stages of her career.
Both stars move ahead with major projects
Although their personal relationship has come to an end, both IU and Lee Jong Suk remain among South Korea’s busiest stars. Lee Jong Suk is preparing for the release of Disney+’s fantasy series The Remarried Empress, an adaptation of the globally popular webtoon that has recorded billions of views. He stars alongside Shin Mina, Ju Ji Hoon and Lee Se Young, portraying Prince Heinrey, the charismatic ruler of the Western Kingdom who possesses the unusual ability to transform into a bird. The highly anticipated series is already generating strong interest among K-drama fans worldwide.
IU is also entering a busy phase of her career with multiple projects lined up. The singer-actor is expected to release a new studio album in August 2026, marking her first original album since Flower Bookmark 3. She is also scheduled to hold a solo concert at Goyang Sports Complex Main Stadium in September, while continuing to expand her acting career after her recent appearance in Disney+’s Perfect Crown alongside Byeon Woo Seok.
Although their romantic chapter has ended, IU and Lee Jong Suk leave behind one of Korean entertainment’s most memorable celebrity relationships. With both agencies confirming they will remain good colleagues, fans are now hoping the two continue to shine individually as they begin the next stage of their careers.
